RILA has called on the Biden-Harris administration to step in and facilitate a resolution before the deadline, citing the severe consequences of a strike. "Retailers are increasingly concerned about the negative impacts a strike will have on supply chains and the broader economy," the association stated in a press release.

A strike would result in port congestion, vessel delays, increased shipping costs, and widespread inventory challenges, adding to the ongoing supply chain disruptions. Retailers see the potential strike as a "self-inflicted wound" to the US economy, given that the contract expiration date has been long known, and believe the lack of progress in negotiations is a missed opportunity.

While retailers have activated contingency plans to mitigate the impact, RILA warns that a prolonged work stoppage could be harder to manage.

RILA, alongside over 170 industry organisations and nearly 70 US lawmakers, has called on the White House to engage directly and help broker an agreement before time runs out.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KD)